Rise of Asian players Eala, Zheng points to progress on tennis’ diversity at US Open: Pegula

American Jessica ⁠Pegula says growth in number of black, Asian players shows sport’s global reach; Coleman Wong to start early Monday morning

American players Jessica ⁠Pegula and Frances Tiafoe said tennis was moving in the right direction on diversity as Tiafoe highlighted increased representation at the top of the game and the financial barriers facing young players.

Pegula said the sport’s global reach was one of its strengths, pointing to players from ‌around the world and the varied fan bases they attract.

“I think the best part of tennis is there is so much diversity,” Pegula told reporters ahead of the US Open. “Everybody from around the world can play.”

Pegula cited representation among black players, as well as the growth of tennis in Asia because of the likes of Alexandra Eala of the Philippines and China’s Zheng Qinwen.

“You see talent from all over the world,” she said. “I think it’s honestly one of the most diverse sports.”

Eala, who won her first WTA title this month, will start her US Open campaign against American Mary Stoiana, while Zheng came through the qualifying rounds to face Russia’s Kristina Liutova.